Google Pixel 6 Vs Galaxy S21: Compare Flagship Androids

The Android operating system powers almost three-quarters of all smartphones globally, though Android and iOS split the U.S. market for mobile operating systems more evenly. Only Apple makes iOS smartphones, but dozens of manufacturers use Google's Android platform. In this crowded Android market, Samsung stands out as the most popular Android brand.

Google's Pixel brand holds a much smaller Android market share than Samsung's Galaxy brand. Still, Google runs the Android platform, so the company's phones deserve attention. Like Apple, Google has also started producing their own chips. With that in mind, compare the two flagship phones from Google and Samsung: Pixel 6 vs Galaxy S21.

According to Tom's Guide, Google recently announced the Pixel 6 and intends to use this flagship phone to contend against Samsung Galaxy's market dominance. To see how both contenders might make out, compare the essential features of each phone.

The Pixel 6 and Galaxy S21 staggered their prices but kept them in the same ballpark:

Here too, both flagship phones offer very similar dimensions:

The Pixel 6 offers a respectable refresh rate of 90Hz, but only the Pixel 6 Pro provides a variable refresh rate that can top out at 120Hz. Both Samsung Galaxy S21 models include a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. Faster refresh rates benefit people who use their phones to play games or perform other tasks that require better screen performance. On the other hand, quick refresh rates may waste unnecessary resources when people use their phones to read books or perform other low-speed activities.

The Galaxy S21 earned attention by including a 64MP telephoto lens on both models, and they also offer an AI feature that helps steady the image. The phones both also offer 12MP primary and 12MP ultrawide cameras. Only the Pixel 6 Pro comes with a dedicated telephoto lens, though both models include a 50MP main lens.

Still, smartphone camera reviewers generally agree that the software makes an immense difference with the limitations of the small lenses offered on phones. Both phones have impressive specs and take quality photos. According to Digital Trends, the Pixel 6 Pro wins the camera round.

The Samsung Galaxy S21 includes one top-performing mobile chip, the Snapdragon 888. So far, these phones have performed well in matchups against other Androids.

At the same time, CNET reported on Google's new custom-built Tensor chip for the Pixel 6. They promise to add more AI capabilities without sacrificing the phone's battery life. The chip should make the Pixel 6 faster than the Pixel 5 and add new features to built-in software, but critics still don't think the Tensor can quite match the top-line Snapdragon 888 for speed.

It looks like neither the Galaxy nor the Pixel phones will include wall chargers in the box, only changing cables. Right now, the Galaxy phones charge at 25W, and the Google 6 charges at 30W. The base Pixel 6 will come with a 4614mAH battery, and the Pro includes a 5000mAH battery. The S21 and S21 Plus come with 4000mAH and 4800mAH.

The specs appear somewhat comparable on paper, but battery life also depends on use, optimization, and the chipset. Sadly, the Samsung S21 phones turned in mediocre performances on battery life tests, but the Pixel 6 turned in a poor performance according to Tom’s Guide.

The Samsung S21 and S21 Pro have had more time to get tested by real-world owners, but the Pixel 6 phones have now been in the hands of owners since the end of October. Both Google and Samsung have proven themselves with high-quality, innovative products, so buying either phone will probably offer a satisfying experience.

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